Rovers Close Gap On Europe

Blackburn moved above Arsenal and level on points with Tottenham in fourth place thanks to a first half goal from Steven Reid and a solid defensive performance against a hard working Sunderland side.
Rovers went into the game full of confidence after a recent good run of results. However despite taking the lead early Blackburn did not cruise to an easy three points. Sunderland as they have to so many other opponents at home made it difficult and if points were being awarded for effort in the Premiership you have the feeling the Mackems would not be in the position they are right now. The loss at home yesterday means that defeat next weekend could see them relegated.
Sunderland started brightly enough, ex Rover Jon Stead had an early sight of goal but the striker snatched at his shot. The same player then laid on a presentable opportunity for Rory Delap producing a good cross. However Delap got the direction on his diving header all wrong and the ball finished well wide of target.
On the quarter hour make they were made to rue their missed chances as Steven Reid was allowed to pick the ball up in his own half an run unchallenged towards the Sunderland penalty area before smashing an unstoppable shot past Kelvin Davis.
Sunderland heads visibly dropped from that moment as Rovers assumed almost total control of the game.
Every attack sprung by the visitors looked dangerous with Craig Bellamy hit a shot just wide. Emerton was then denied by a fine save from Davis who full length tip turned the Australian header around the post.
Bellamy created a further chance for Emerton with a cute through ball and although the Australian could not find a finish to match, Rovers went in at the interval by far the happier of the two sides with a firm grip on the game.
Sunderland started the second period with renewed vigour and should have hauled themselves back on level terms through Chris Brown.
The striker was given a clear run on goal after Tugay misjudged a header, but the striker never looked confident and saw his shot saved by the legs of Brad Friedel.
Sunderland boss Kevin Ball brought on Kevin Kyle and Liam Lawrence to try and change things. But Rovers held out as Sunderland lacked the cutting edge and finishing touch that their performance deserved.